The only scary thing here is the mess I made tbh. And the wrinkles. Yikes.

I'm here to tell you:

HAVE NO FEAR!

I know I know, easier said than done. If it was just that easy to erase fears I wouldn't be the deathly-afraid-of-centipedes person that I am I would just say to myself "stop being scared of this little bug you literally are 1000x bigger than it just step on it wait where are you going stop screaming come back oh my gosh there she goes again I need a drink." My inner voice's patience is running thin with me.

But truthfully, mixing patterns and prints is not as scary as it seems. The first step is confidence. This is a no-brainer in any activity in your life. I know it's a tired idea but just bear with me here, ok? The second step is, "Alright... I have all these prints but how do I make them work together?" When I mix prints I don't just throw things on willy-nilly, although that can work too. I find it easier to break down the process into three different categories of pattern-mixing and then see what I can come up with.

#1: COLORED PATTERN + COLORED PATTERN

This one is my favorite and probably the most-used. It just makes sense. Pull a color from pattern #1 and match it with another color in pattern #2. Check out some examples:

This skirt is awesome. It has little beige flowers with a red center. I took the beige and matched it with a beige stripe in my yellow American Eagle tee. The colors in this outfit are all pretty muted, so nothing is competing.

Another American Eagle striped tee. This time I matched the coral-red color that is also found in the diamond shape on my pants. Had to throw my coral shoes in too.

Love my flannels! Matched the red in the flannel to the red in the flowers on this thrifted romper.

#2: BLACK AND WHITE PATTERN + COLORED PATTERN

Another way I look to mix things up a bit is by choosing a pattern that is black and white and pairing it with a colored pattern. This simplifies things a little more than the previous option; it becomes no longer necessary to match colors up. Just look for prints that might go well together! The trick here is to find contrasting patterns. Stripes and Houndstooth. Floral and polka-dot. Or even the same pattern just in a different size and color! Check out some examples:

Polka dots and floral together are a little girly for me, but I just love how the focus is on the skirt, so you can essentially do whatever you want on top!

A more work-appropriate look. Wide-leg striped pants with a floral top.

Stripes AND stripes? You bet. It helps that the stripes are going in different directions and are exceedingly different in size.

#2: BLACK AND WHITE PATTERN + BLACK AND WHITE PATTERN

Oh how I love my colorless clothing. Don't get me wrong, colors are great. But sometimes I just need to go back to the good ol' basics. Like the tip above, the trick is to find differing prints and essentially just holding them together and seeing if it pleases your eyeballs. If the patterns make you go a little dizzy then maybe they aren't meant to be together. But hey I mean if you like to look like a walking magic eye then more power to you!

Good ol' stripes and florals. These patterns are pretty similar size-wize, but the floral pattern is just small and concentrated enough that it works.

WHAT'S THIS? HORIZONTAL STRIPES ON HORIZONTAL STRIPES?? Yes, I am out of control. Look, the stripes are completely different sizes! It also helps that the skirt is grey and black. Get that full black and white color spectrum workin'!

WELL, THERE YA HAVE IT.

I hope this post made you think, "Hm... she is a wierdo but I am a little less scared of putting outfits together." Maybe you read this entire post thinking "this girl is a loony there is no way I'm wearing these prints she needs to get out of here". And that's fine too! Ultimately, I just wanted to share and show some ways that I personally try to mix things up in my closet.

My biggest tip is to trust your eyeballs. They are right there inside your face for you. If a pattern pairing looks "right" to your eyes, it probably is!

My second biggest tip is to always remember to rock anything you're wearing with confidence.

And don't be scared of your clothes anymore! They are your friends. Embrace them.

Again, it's been awhile since I've done a blog posting. But what can I say I keep having excellent excuses! Such as this one:

The day I took these pictures was the last day I would ever drive my car. A 1999 Toyota Camry.

It's time had come. A few days earlier I had gone in for a routine oil change. Driving out, my car died in the parking lot. They kept it overnight but couldn't find a solution other than, "well, maybe your car is just old and dying." Granted, It did have a quarter of a million miles on it.

Fast forward through multiple break-downs (both of the car and um... me), rescues by amazing people (thank you roomie!), more puzzled car repair experts, some seriously stressful rides to and home from work, and land on this day. Little did I know that when I was taking these pictures that morning that I would get behind-the-wheel of my beloved little camry for the last time.

I'm making things sound sadder than they are. In the end, I am so relieved that my car troubles are over. Forever. Seriously, have you seen my new wheels?

YEEUUUUPP SORRY CAMRY BUDDY BUT YOUR TIME IS UP!!! ENJOY THE JUNKYARD, KID!!!!!

So here I am making excuses again. Anyway here's the post.

MY NEW FAV NECKLACE. It's from Target.

Look at my face. So unaware. So innocent. So unaware of the trials that would come a mere 7 hours later...

That's all for now folks! I wish you all safe summer days with valid transportation. Seriously... Don't take vehicles for granted!!!

On top of my laziness I am also The World's #1 Procrastinator. I will not clean my room until there is absolutely not an ounce of carpet left for me to step on. Maybe I like the challenge of maneuvering around giant piles of clothes and shoes. I sleep next to half-emptied luggage bags and unopened bags of chips and new shoes and even sometimes dangerous objects like scissors or screwdrivers. It's a wonder I don't injure myself in my sleep.

What I am trying to say is: I am lazy, a procrastinator, and keeping a style blog is going to be hard.

I've also been pretty swamped with work, family happenings, and general nice-weatherness. I apologize. I will try to be better at this! Let's hope summer brings productiveness to me.

Speaking of summer, check out my summer-y, floral-y shirt.

Florals. I love florals.

This is one of my favorite and oldest shirts. I got it at a thrift store in high school and cut off the sleeves. It makes those hot days a little more bearable when there is less fabric on your arms. When I'm not dressing business casual for the workplace, I tie the bottom and pair it with a pair of high-rise shorts! Endless possibilities.

Wanna find your own floral button-down? I suggest heading to your local thrift store/goodwill and scour the racks for some awesome prints. If you don't really like second-hand clothing (which would be a tragedy), check out these online options!

Of course, I can't go around wearing a cut off shirt to work. This is where a good blazer always comes in handy! Mine is a recent purchase from H&M. It's lightweight and essentially wrinkle free, with an open-front design, so essentially I can throw it over anything.

And of course, American Eagle Denim.

That's all folks! I'm going to go outside and try to enjoy this beautiful weather. You should too!

Look at what I am wearing. Sweat Pants. I wore sweat pants to work. I have reached peak laziness.

I found these fabulous Joggers in a Macy's clearance rack. What a wonderful place. Initially I thought, "wow these are incredibly soft I can definitely see myself binge watching Law & Order on my couch in these. Hot Dog!"

The next morning however, after staring aimlessly at my closet for a good 13 minutes, my new Joggers suddenly spoke to me. They said, "Emilee......... wear us... we are like wonderful pants made of clouds we promise you will have a good time today."How could I resist?

So I caved. But I knew that I couldn't just get away with wearing literal sweatpants to work that easily. Needed to dress things up a bit. So I threw on some heels. I threw on a button-down, some nice jewelry and grabbed a blazer. JUXTAPOSITION!

I know that you too, would like to wear sweatpants to work. You can do it! Let's do it! let's start a revolution! I unfortunately couldn't find these exact pair of Joggers (G.H. Bass & Co,), but here are some options that you could totally rock in the workplace:

What I tend to do is buy something new that I undoubtedly end up wearing for 5 days straight and then after that I go back to "I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR" which we all know is a lie. As of recently though, I have been trying to look for "essentials" for every season that I know I can get a really good run out of.

Because on top of being inherently lazy I am also a low-grade hoarder. And any item of clothing that will last me a while is my new BFF, and I should know, I still have shirts from middle school. And lately I've been noticing some pretty awesome trends for spring that I think could really stick around for quite some time. So with that being said, I present to you...

EMILEE'S 5 STYLE ESSENTIALS FOR SPRING

1. WHITE BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT

Why I love it...

I seriously just love me some button-down shirts and you can't get more classic than white. I feel like everyone needs to own at least one. As for me, I own a couple different kinds. One with pockets, one that's cropped, a flannel one (WHAT A SURPRISE!)... But my favorite is this linen one. Linen is light enough to layer but also sufficient on its own, PLUS if it wrinkles it kind-of adds to the charm.

How to style it...

It's such an easy piece. Personally, I love to tuck my shirts in, even if its just a little bit in the front to show a belt. Sometimes I tie the bottom to mix it up a bit (although I feel like this is more of a summer look). It also helps to roll the sleeves. Unless you're cold then it's okay I just want you to be warm. Button all the way up if you want! Instant professional.

Pair it with...

It depends on the style, but a white button-down shirt really goes with anything. Wanting a more professional look? Tuck that sucker into a high-waisted skirt or some nice dress pants. More casual? Tuck loosely into jeans or joggers. It's just one of those nice items that can be worn for almost any circumstance. You could even unbutton all the way and wear as a swim cover-up! Endless Possibilities.

Where to find it...

The shirt i'm wearing is from J. Jill (thanks Buffalo Exchange!) and you can find one similar to mine here, but here are some more options:

2. TURTLENECK

Why I love it...

I was super into turtlenecks in high school, I had about 7 of them and I WISH I had saved them... foolish me. Trends always come back around. I just really love how incredibly 90's turtlenecks are. Nostalgic maybe. Only this time I'm not wearing my Mickey Mouse overalls with one. The turtleneck has really evolved, too. Cropped, sleeveless, looser styles are now all over the place. It's also a great "Minnesotan Spring" piece because, lets face it, it's cold here for a long, long time.

How to style it...

It's a pretty bold look, so I tend to keep everything else simple. Pair with jeans & boots and it's an instant work-appropriate ensemble. It can also be a great layering piece. I own a sleeveless black turtleneck (you'll see it in a second) and all I have to do is throw something over it. Throwing your hair up can also show off the dramatic neckline. (RIP MY LONG HAIR! I WILL MISS YOU TOP BUN!)

Pair it with...

Unless it's a looser style (like the one above), I usually like to tuck my turtlenecks in. Tuck it into an a-line skirt to help balance the stuffiness up top, or throw on an oversized cardigan and pair with some ripped jeans. A delicate necklace over the sweater or some big hoop earrings add to the drama.

Where to find it...

The ones I'm wearing are both from H&M. You can find them here & here. (Seriously... just search H&M Turtlenecks for a plethora of incredibly inexpensive and cute options.) Here are some more:

3. MIDI SKIRT

Why I love it...

I've never been a huge a fan of mini skirts. And floor length skirts are a hassle. I don't want to hold up fabric so I can walk all day long. Midi skirts are different! I love how effortlessly cool they look. And once you have one on you really don't need to do much else with your outfit. But I feel like people are a little scared of them. There's no need to be frightened! I am here for you. I believe in you. You can do it.

How to style it...

I will admit, I have a handful of midi skirts in my closet that I am still trying to wear. I'm going to be honest with you. They are a little tricky. I recommend a heel or wedge to help lengthen things, because sometime the cut of the skirt can shrink you. I would also recommend going for high-waisted. Anything lower on the waist is a little early 2000's... which we are all still trying to recover from. I am super into denim right now, but chiffon or a flowy fabric are great alternatives if you're not feelin' "the blues". (Check out my examples for some really cute styles!) Also I should add, a good alternative to a true midi (shin-grazing length) is a nice knee-length skirt.

Pair it with...

Heels and Wedges are REAL NICE with a midi skirt. Crop tops and loose shirts tucked in are the go-to for tops for me. If your skirt is more a-line, go for a tighter fitting shirt. If the skirt is more narrow (like my denim one), a looser style is a nice juxtaposition. But don't let me tell you how to live your life. I feel like anything can go with a midi skirt if you just exude confidence and ~believe~ in yourself. ROCK IT!

Where to find it...

Mine is a vintage style from Buffalo Exchange. I HIGHLY recommend hittin' up your local thrift or goodwill to find some awesome midi skirts. That's where about %75 of mine come from. I have to say a huge THANK YOU to 90's fashion for supplying thrift stores with some treasures. If you aren't looking for something secondhand, check these out:

Denim Maxi | Nasty Gal | $34.00 (almost sold out but it's very similar to the style I am wearing.)

4. STRIPES

Why I love it...

IF YOU KNOW ME AT ALL EVEN JUST A LITTLE BIT YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I LOVE STRIPES!!!!!!Sorry about the yelling but I truly love stripes. All kinds, all sorts. Horizontal, vertical, diagonal, zig zag? Sure why not. I probably own over 15 striped shirts. I love how graphic and eye-catching they can be. And what I am really loving is the "RETURN OF THE STRIPES" in a great 70's vibe. Look for thinner stripes and muted colors this season. They are everywhere!

How to style it...

Whether its a shirt, a dress or a bottom, stripes are surprisingly easy. I really hate those articles/people that say stripes are unflattering. Don't listen to them. The key is to find the right kind of stripe. It's true, stripes can effect your eyes just like an optical illusion. If you wear vertical striped pants, they will seem to lengthen your legs. If you chose a thick horizontal striped shirt, it might seem to shorten your torso. It's all about using stripes to your advantage. Stripes are your friend.

Pair it with...

If you're going for a day-to-day look, all you need is one striped piece to really rock this trend. Pair a striped piece with a solid color or some jeans and you're set. Feeling adventurous? Pair with more patterns! I MEAN IT! The trick is to vary the patterns. Florals look SO GOOD with stripes. Polka dots too! Don't be afraid to pile on the patterns.

Where to find it...

My dress is from American Eagle. It's an older style so it is unfortunately out of stock, but here are some other great options:

Tomgirl Striped Tee | American Eagle | $19.95 (Yeaaaahhh..... I may have just bought this shirt. Also this one. Opps...)

5. Tomgirl/Boyfriend/Mom Jeans

Why I love it...

These are the jeans of many names. They go by Tomgirl. They go by boyfriend. They even go by mom. They are all three and MORE. These are the ever versatile loose-fitting jean. I love them because they are so effortless in both their look and their styling. They can be extremely casual but also professional. I think they get a bad rap though. Don't be mean to them! I think if you had the chance to wear them you would change your mind. They are so comfortable. And surprisingly trendy!

How to style it...

CUFF THOSE PANTS! You gotta. Well, you don't have to but I personally think it really adds a polish and detail. Look for both high-waisted and lower-waisted styles. There are a lot of distressed pairs of boyfriend jeans out there. They are real cute, but I'm telling you a non-destructed pair works just as well. And they are out there. Look for alllll washes of the rainbow, too.

Pair it with...

I love the high-waist. Tucking in a loose tee or throwing on a crop top is a super cute, casual look. If your jeans sit a little lower on your hips, a button-down shirt can really turn it into a professional outfit. heeled boots or heels can also help you feel a little less "slouchy". This is another pretty dramatic trend, so be confident in your choices and I promise you will look and feel wonderful.

Where to find it...

My light wash & my black pair are both from Goodwill, which I highly recommend. The last pair is from American Eagle, which have a great abundance of Tomgirl jeans. Check them out & more:

that concludes my 5 Style Essentials for Spring!

I hope by reading this you gain some inspiration, maybe to take some risks as the weather gets warmer. Maybe to pull out that one piece that you've been a little scared of. But there's no need to be scared. Style can be fun! And the more confident you feel, the more confident you'll come across to others. Not to mention you feel great about yourself. Which is my goal, I think. Other than to entertain you with my ramblings and funny thoughts.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions about the styles above, where to find them, or just general life tips. (I can't really guarantee I'll be any help if you come to me with math problems, but I'll give it a shot.)

Now get out there, dress happy and be happy! Spring is on its way.

-Em

Here's us as baby twins back in 2012! #Denim

OH! A NOTE...

All of these amazingly wonderful photographs are courtesy of the equally amazing and wonderful Kate Becker, of Kate Becker Photography. She is Incredibly talented. Enormously giving. Unspeakably creative. Words fail me. We got to take photos in her grand-spankin' new GORGEOUS home, and I am in love. Kate, thank you for being you, for being one of my oldest friends, watching ridiculous movies with me in my dorm room and decorating hilarious cookies. I love you with all my heart.

EVERYONE... go and look at her work. After you pick your jaw up off the floor, go "like" her facebook page and then book a session with her. GO ON, DO IT!

Some days I'm like "why can't I just wear my Star Wars pajamas to work."

Those days are usually Mondays.

And unfortunately I don't think my Darth Vader-patterned fleece lounge pants would be appropriate for an office setting.

So what do I do when I have those when I simply "cannot" and my laziness is at peak Taurus laziness? I reach for my tried-and-true closet staples.

This is the kind of outfit that people will see me wearing and be like "Wow there's Emilee in those flannel shirts again..."

My outfits usually start with one piece, and then I build around it. When I'm having one of those lazy days, I just grab what I know best. You know,

Flannel Shirt

Big Necklace

Jeans

Ankle Boots

Watch

I really love watches. I have a few but this one from Anne Klein is my favorite. I think if you're feeling "BLEH" about an outfit you should throw a watch on and see how you instantly feel much better because, to be honest, I think watches look expensive and and class up any outfit.

If you know me at all you know how many button-up shirts I own.

It's a lot. I own a lot of them.

Something I love doing is buttoning them all the way up to the top and then throwin' on a big ol' necklace. It makes a casual flannel look a little more work appropriate and you don't need a sweater or jacket over it.

Also, and you'll probably see me blabbing about this a lot, but I hate layering. Which is why I don't particularly like winter. Or fall. Or spring. The fewer the layers, the happier I am don't ask me why I JUST AM OK?????

Finally I just throw on one of the 50000 pairs of ankle boots I own. Gross exaggeration, but there are a lot.

I am currently typing this at a crowded Starbucks listening to Ella Fitzgerald and Justin Timberlake simultaneously via the booming speakers and my personal headphones. Not an ideal mashup, but at least I can appreciate both songs.

Why am I in this bizzare, caffine-and-people-filled situation? Temporary internet connection issues at my home. Not the worst thing that can happen to a person. Definitely a ridiculous first-world problem, but nonetheless an inconvenient one. Anyway, without further adieu...

WELCOME TO MY STYLE JOURNAL!

This year I vowed to be less lazy and more productive. Not an easy feat for me. But an idea that has always been in the back of my mind was to start a Style Blog/Journal, etc. I'm not one for New Years Resolutions but I figured what better time to try something new than uh... February? I hope this journal gives you insight into my closet and into my mind. But beware the latter is a crazy place. Actually, my closet is too dang I get lost in there sometimes.

I recently bought these American Eagle Tomgirl jeans and I must say I am in love???? Really comfy. Y'all gotta try them.

***A WARNING*** I wear A LOT OF JEANS! This is a direct consequence of being employed at American Eagle. Just... wanted to give everyone a heads-up.

The AE Tomgirl jeans in action! Also. Yes. I did have cold ankles today.

I recently chopped off my hair. It was about 7 feet long. A gross exaggeration but it was pretty extreme. I'm still trying to figure out "life with a BOB" but I really do love it.

My BLOB!!!!!! (Blonde bob.... FYI)

When all else fails... PILE ON THE RINGS! Be your own Lord of your Rings.

SO... There ya have it! My first official Style Journal post. I'm not sure how frequently I will post at this point. Just bear with me for a while :)

Well, I'm off to find the illustrious WORLD WIDE WEB! Wish me luck on my quests for interwebs. Here's my "IT KINDA STINKS TO HAVE NO INTERNET" face: